I heard the S38 the other day and was impressed. I have not liked JBL's past speakers, but the S38s are well balanced, pleasant sounding speakers with good bandwidth. I do not know how well they soundstage as they were placed in the top corner of a store. But the midrange was smooth. They also seemed okay in the highs, but, ya' know, i was way off-axis. Also look in to B&W. They have a great soundstage, and good detail. Thier mids are really good, but are dry, not warm. I have not heard many, maybe any, speakers in your range that are particularly rolled off. You may have to address that in your amplification. Maybe the MMGs are better in this department than dynamic speakers, but i have never heard them. Good luck
Best speakers for my system/taste/budget?
Dear Reader,
I live in a apt., so I am forced to avoid full range speakers and/or sub's. My musical taste primarily consist of traditional jazz (Miles, Monk, Mingus...)70's R&B/rock and 80's pop. I am a freak for soundstage, detail,a warm mid range and slightly rolled off at the top (I hate hot tweeters) I am definitely on a budget, so please don't recommend anything over $500 new or used including stands.
My electronics are modest, but very musical (to me at least)and will remain unchanged
Transport\Adcom GCD 600
Digital\ Adcom GDA 600
Pre\Adcom GFP 555II
Amp\Adcom GFA 545
Speakers/Mission 731i
Cables\Kimber PBJ\Canare Digi Flex Gold\Shot gun run of Audioquest F-88